Every time I bake Cranberry Orange Bread, I am reminded of the beautiful autumn days spent with my family. I can still see my grandchildren, giggling and running around the kitchen as the sweet, tart aroma fills the air. This bread is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug that brings comfort and joy. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and I promise, once you try it, it will find a special place in your heart and on your table.
The dish combines the vibrant flavors of fresh cranberries and the zesty brightness of oranges, creating a loaf that’s both cheerful and comforting. You can feel the warmth of family gatherings in every slice, and it’s a tradition I look forward to every fall. Picture it: a slice of warm, moist bread with a decadent orange glaze, enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee while sharing stories with loved ones. Trust me, you’ll love this recipe as much as I do!
How to make Cranberry Orange Bread
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Orange juice | 1 cup |
| Fresh cranberries, chopped | 1 cup |
| Orange zest | Zest of 1 orange |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (for glaze) |
| Orange juice (for glaze) | 2 tablespoons |
I can’t emphasize enough how important the fresh cranberries are for this recipe. They provide that signature tartness that balances perfectly with the sweet orange glaze. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen can work too, but do keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. And let’s not forget about the orange juice and zest—they truly elevate the flavor profile.
Let’s get to the fun part—baking!
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Preheat your oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. No one wants a soggy loaf!
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Prepare the loaf pan. Grease a regular loaf pan with some butter or non-stick spray. Get it ready to receive that glorious batter!
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Mix dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the baking powder evenly, which is key for a fluffy loaf.
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Combine wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and orange juice. I love using fresh orange juice—it adds a wonderful vibrancy to the mix!
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Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; we want to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense loaf.
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Fold in cranberries and zest. Now, fold in those lovely chopped cranberries and the orange zest. This is where the magic happens! You’ll immediately be hit with that beautiful, fruity aroma.
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Pour and smooth. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Take a moment to admire the beautiful colors before it goes into the oven!
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Bake. Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As you wait, enjoy the smell wafting through your kitchen—it’s absolutely divine!
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Prepare the glaze. While your bread cools, let’s whip up the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. It should be just pourable, not too runny.
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Glaze the bread. Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle that luscious glaze over the top. Watch it cascade down the sides—it’s like a beautiful waterfall of sweetness!
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Slice and serve. Now it’s time to slice into that gorgeous loaf. I recommend serving it with a little butter on the side or simply enjoying it as is. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Why I Love Making This Dish:
Cranberry Orange Bread holds a special place in my heart. Every time I make it, I think back to the family gatherings where we all congregate around the kitchen island, laughing and sharing stories while the bread bakes. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that connects me to my roots and my loved ones. The vibrant colors and scents symbolize togetherness and warmth, and it warms my heart to share it with you.
What You’ll Need:
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need a bread loaf pan, mixing bowls, and a whisk. A wooden spoon or spatula is essential for folding in the cranberries, and, of course, your measuring cups and spoons will be handy to get the portions just right!
Step-by-Step Guide for Cranberry Orange Bread:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Grease your loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that yummy batter.
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, blend those sweet wet ingredients together.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently.
- Add cranberries and orange zest, and fold in lovingly.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, reveling in the scent.
- Prepare the orange glaze while waiting.
- Drizzle glaze over cooled bread once it’s perfect.
- Slice and share with your loved ones!
Tips for Perfect Results:
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to your wet ingredients. It gives the bread an aromatic depth that is simply delightful.
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before baking. It helps them combine better for a fluffier texture.
- If you like a more intense cranberry flavor, don’t hesitate to add more! Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
This delicious Cranberry Orange Bread pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a comforting cup of tea. You could also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream cheese or even some honey butter if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s a fantastic breakfast item but works beautifully as an afternoon snack or dessert too!
Leftovers:
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Simply wrap the bread in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for a couple of days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can freeze it. Just slice the bread first, and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, just take it out, let it thaw, and warm it up in the microwave or toaster. It will taste just as wonderful!
FAQ Section:
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Just make sure to chop them up a bit before adding them to the batter. I’ve done this many times, and it works beautifully!
What can I substitute for orange juice?
If you’re out of orange juice, you can use apple juice or even pineapple juice for a different twist! Each will give a unique flavor, but don’t worry, it’ll still be delicious!
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just use two loaf pans and bake them at the same time. You’ll have plenty to share, or to keep for those late-night cravings!
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Sure! You can swap out half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and use less sugar if desired. It might alter the texture slightly, but it’s still tasty!
Conclusion:
I truly hope you try making this Cranberry Orange Bread soon—it has become an absolute favorite in my house. The warm, comforting flavors and the beautiful aroma will fill your kitchen with happiness and love. I am so excited for you to create your own memories with this recipe, just as I have with mine. Please share how it turns out, and if you get requests for seconds (which you absolutely will!), know that your family is just as enamored with it as mine. Happy baking!